How To Reset Steering Angle Sensor Without Scanner
How To Reset Steering Angle Sensor Without Scanner have been a staple since the early 1990s. However, due to advancements in Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems, the need to reset them after routine maintenance has gained prominence more recently. While this adds a step to steering tasks, it also opens up profitable service opportunities for knowledgeable garages. In this guide, we delve into SAS, its role, the significance of resetting it, and signs of a failing sensor. Equip yourself with insights to reset and proceed on your next steering job.
Understanding the Steering Angle Sensor
Over the past decade, vehicle manufacturers have integrated various sensors into steering systems. Among them is the SAS, usually present in multiple units within the steering column. Serving as a vital part of the vehicle’s stability control system, it offers a precise read on wheel position and turning rate. Collaborating with yaw, accelerometer, and wheel speed sensors, it gauges vehicle dynamics—comprehending the vehicle’s actions, the driver’s intentions, and required adjustments by the ABS hydraulic control unit for maintaining control.
Functioning of Steering Angle Sensors
Two primary types of SAS exist: analog and digital, with the latter being prevalent in modern vehicles. Analog sensors possess a 5-volt reference, chassis ground, and signal output. As the wheel completes a full rotation, it generates a signal ranging from 0 to 5 volts, denoting turn rate and angle. Conversely, digital sensors utilize an LED light to measure turn rate, wheel angle, turn direction, and other essential data. Regardless of type, if SAS detects inconsistency between the steering wheel’s position and the vehicle’s direction, the stability control system intervenes. For instance, during understeer, it automatically engages the inner rear brake to rectify the issue.
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Recognizing Steering Sensor Failures
Although SAS is designed to last a vehicle’s lifespan, it, like other electronic components, is vulnerable to wear and tear. It can also suffer damage during work on other vehicle parts, such as the power steering wheel. Familiarizing yourself with common signs of a malfunctioning sensor is prudent. Look out for:
- Illumination of warning lights: A faulty SAS triggers a stability-related warning light on the dashboard, indicating the system’s disabled state and the need for servicing. This light is commonly the traction control light, but it could also be the check engine light.
- Steering wheel behavior: A malfunctioning or misaligned SAS sends inaccurate data to the electronic control unit (ECU). This can result in improper steering adjustments, leading to either a loose steering wheel or unresponsive steering behavior.
Importance of Steering Angle Sensor Reset
Given that vehicles equipped with ESC, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and safety features rely on accurate SAS data, resetting is now essential after wheel alignment or component replacement affecting toe and thrust angles. This ensures these systems understand the vehicle’s road behavior, enabling them to predict and implement necessary safety adjustments. A misaligned or inaccurately calibrated SAS can disrupt the vehicle’s stability system, leading to its malfunction and eventual disablement.
Resetting the Steering Angle Sensor
Resetting SAS varies significantly based on manufacturers and models. Here are the main calibration methods that integrate SAS with other sensors:
- Self-calibration: Some modern vehicles can self-calibrate by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock, centering it, and cycling the key. Other vehicles may require specific commands to initiate calibration.
- Test drive: More advanced wheel speed sensor-equipped vehicles can automatically reset their SAS during a straight-line drive for a set time, typically a few seconds at highway speed.
- Diagnostic scan tool reset: Certain vehicles might necessitate a scan tool reset. Some alignment systems even include SAS reset functions, eliminating the need for a separate diagnostic procedure post-alignment.
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It’s recommended to perform SAS calibration on the ground rather than on a lift, adhering to the manufacturer’s service manual for precise instructions. Regardless of the vehicle and its specified procedure, integrating steering angle reset into your alignment routine adds value to your services as an independent garage.
